Occupations

Occupations

You have a target occupation in mind, but are unsure of what’s required to work in the field. Get the information you need starting with:

National Occupational Classification (NOC)
The NOC is used to classify and describe occupations. The NOC includes over 40,000 job titles organized into 500 occupational group descriptions. A single NOC entry consists of a specific Occupation Title (e.g., Civil Engineer) and a four-digit NOC Code (e.g., 2131), along with a description for the occupation.To find the title of your intended occupation (in Canada) and related NOC Code (e.g.2131) search the NOC Site. The NOC listing will include a brief description of the occupation, job titles, sample duties, educational and employment requirements, and notes specific to requirements for licensure and /or registration.

Occupations are either regulated or non-regulated. Each Canadian province and territory has its own standards, laws and requirements for occupations.

Occupations that are non-regulated do not require a license. The majority of occupations in Canada are non-regulated, and range from entry to management level positions. Occupations that are regulated require you to have a license before you can begin work. About 20 per cent of occupations in Canada are regulated to protect the health and safety of Canadians by ensuring that individuals working in the field meet the required standards of practice and competency.

As a general rule, if your chosen occupation is regulated, the recognition of your qualifications will be determined by a provincial or territorial regulatory body. To work in a regulated profession or trade and use a reserved title, you must obtain a licence to practise or a certificate of qualification.